There is a common entrance test for SRFTI and FTII. This test usually takes place in November. If you clear the written entrance test, they will call you for the orientation program. It takes around 5 days. At the orientation, there will be various activities like group discussions and interviews. If you clear these rounds you will get selected for admission. This is the general procedure for admission.

One of my friends studied in FTII Pune. Let me share the information I got to know from him. After clearing the entrance exam, you should have a basic idea of what could be asked. They usually look for your observation skills.  The first thing you should know is how Cinema is treated as a representation of actuality. You will have to be aware of the History of Cinema. Starting from the Lumiere Brothers to Edison’s films. Try and be your honest self.  Your observation on simple things like a scenic view or a day to day activity would be asked to explain in your own words. Do not try to exaggerate. Listen to what they are asking and answer accordingly. Avoid using any technical terminology.  Share your experiences with cinema.  It is suggested to keep a positive mind and attitude. Approach it more like a conversation than an interview.

For FTII, Pune, you must first be a film enthusiast in some way. It is an excellent place to visit if you have a strong passion for and interest in cinema. You should always be honest and clear about what you know and don't know. A general understanding of regional or national cinema is required. Filmmaking should be full of energy and enthusiasm. You should watch a lot of good movies and TV shows. Read various books on literature, fiction, and so on. Learn about current events and general knowledge. View and study the works of at least ten great filmmakers from around the world, as well as at least ten or more good filmmakers from India (at least 3 - 4 regional filmmakers). This would make you understand the concept in a broader way. View their entire body of work.

At FTII, direction is the most coveted seat after acting. Competition for this stream is comparably higher. If you want to become a director, you will need to know about music, sound design, editing, cinematography, acting, art direction, screenplay, storytelling. Here are some of the things that can help you get a head start on examination and interview.  Read 5Cs of Cinematography. It covers all aspects of filmmaking.  Watch movies of reputed directors like Satyajit Ray, Ritwik Ghatak, Ingmar Bergman, Martin Scorcese, Akira Kurosawa.  Read up about filmmaking and film analysis. For multiple-choice type questions, you can read GK books and newspapers.

First, you should make sure that you have what it takes to make it in the film industry. Joining FTII doesn’t guarantee a job. It doesn’t offer placement. So, you will have to seek job opportunities on your own. However, the alumni base is quite helpful.  At the entrance, there will be questions mostly from GK, Film History, Logical Aptitude, and design/writing/creative questions. Read up on Indian Film History. Read about the different ages and the people that made a mark on Indian Cinema. Even if you are not that interested in regional cinema, it’s important to know about them. At the entrance, they can ask about different parts of the history of Indian Cinema. You may also need to write your opinion. Also, watch a lot of films. Try to analyze them. Try to shoot a film, if you can. It will go a long way if you get through to the interview stage.  You can easily find the previous year’s question papers of FTII. 

To prepare for an acting course at the FTII in Pune, knowing only the body of work of the popular actors will not be enough. Your ability to notice good work in performances, irrespective of the length or popularity of the role is what will make you stand out among others.  For example, in Silence of the Lambs, the lead character Anthony Hopkins has a 14-minute length of performance which ultimately won him the Oscar. By studying the character’s behaviour and patterns will give you an idea on how to enact a scene. The theatre exposure, practical or viewer experience are the most important factors that will influence your preparation for acting. You will be selected on the basis of  how determined and passionate you are to become an actor. The true knowledge of Cinema and understanding the medium in which to deliver your performance is the primary requirement. As these will ultimately give a push to your acting career.

Apart from FTII-Pune, the only reputable school or institute to study acting and drama is the NSD (National School of Drama) in Delhi. Naseeruddin Shah, Irrfan Khan, Om Puri, and Anupam Kher are among the most well-known NSD alumni. Satyajit Ray Film and Television in Kolkata is another one of the best institutions.  A few more institutions are mentioned below - Kolkata's SRFTI, Chennai Madras Film Institute, AISFM, Hyderabad, AAFT Noida, CRAFT, Delhi.